Benjamin Bramaier, 22, made the discovery two months ago. “It took me completely by surprise,” he said. “I must admit I am curious to find out more about my roots, but I grew up my whole life as a Jew, which is why I’m here.”

Bramaier, who was adopted and raised by two Jewish fathers in Texas, immigrated through the Garin Tzabar program of the Israeli Scouts and the Ministry of Absorption.

“I fell in love with the country the first time I visited,” Bramaier said. “As time goes on, I’m more and more surprised at how far Israel has managed to come with so few resources. The fact that there’s so much hatred and criticism against Israel proves that history repeats itself and it’s important for Israel to be strong in order to deal with the challenges ahead. That’s why I am here,” Bramaier said.